Royal Mail Post & Go Stamp to Celebrate Swindon175 Available at STEAM

The most significant date in Swindon’s history will be marked by Royal Mail tomorrow (25 Feb).

STEAM – Museum of the Great Western Railway has been specially chosen to issue a steam locomotive Post & Go stamp to coincide with the town’s Swindon175 celebrations. The stamps will feature a picture of a Dean Single Locomotive from the GWR’s Achilles Class. The locomotive was built by the Great Western Railway in Swindon between 1891 and 1899.

The stamp from Royal Mail’s latest Post & Go issue – Royal Mail Heritage: Transport will be available at the popular Post & Go stamp kiosk at the museum in Kemble Drive to mark the 175th anniversary of the birth of the Swindon Railway Works and will carry the words ‘Swindon175’.

On February 25, 1841, GWR directors authorised the establishment of the railway works in Swindon, after the town was identified by Sir Daniel Gooch as being the ideal place for GWR’s central repair works. Construction began immediately, heralding a new age for the town.

Swindon175 marks this landmark anniversary when construction began on the Great Western Railway’s locomotive repair shed. The year-long programme is supported by main sponsor GWR and managed by Swindon Borough Council and Business West. 2016 will see a wide range of events which will involve Swindon’s people and businesses in a celebration of the town’s rich heritage and achievements.

Cllr Garry Perkins, Swindon Borough Council’s Cabinet Member responsible for STEAM, said: “I’m absolutely thrilled STEAM has been chosen to issue Royal Mail’s Post & Go stamp of the Swindon-built locomotive and the design is absolutely stunning.

“The stamps are fantastic memento, whether you’re a collector of stamps or are just looking to send a postcard from the museum. I would urge the people of Swindon to show their support of STEAM and buy a stamp today and join us in celebrating Swindon175.”